The NSBA's History

The Northshore Billiards Association began play in September of 1986. It was founded in Beverly, Massachusetts by a unique group of people who contributed years of time and effort to create the organization we now enjoy. The NSBA owes its' thanks in particular to Ray Howell, Tom Latorella and Jim Valentine as well as many others who in the early years, invested so much to ensure the success of the league. The goal of the founders was to create an environment where people could compete in the game of eight ball in a friendly manner. Good sportsmanship and fair play were foremost in their thoughts. With this goal in mind, they named the leagues' most coveted prize trophy after an individual who epitomized these ideals. that individual is Johnny Marco. Johnny was not only a skilled pool player but he approached the game in the same way as the leagues' founders did. That is why every year the teams in the NSBA compete for the "Johnny Marco Cup".

Johnny was one of the top pool players to come out of the North Shore. Some of his accomplishments were 5 time New England Champion, 4 time Massachusetts Pool Champion and 2 time runner up World Pool Champion. During his career, he competed with the top players of his time, such as Willie Mosconi, Irving Crane, Jimmy Caras and Steve Mizerak. He also appeared on ABC's Wide World of Sports with Willie Mosconi.

But to the people who grew to know him, Johnny was more than just a skilled craftsman when he put his stick together. He was a true Ambassador for the billiard world to behold. Johnny always had time to remind other players that pool was indeed as worthwhile to undertake as bowling or golf. He would bring his message to all the pool halls in the North Shore at a time when this game did not have the good reputation that it enjoys today. Johnny always talked about pool leagues when there where none. He said many times, "pool is just as good a game as golf and bowling, there should be pool leagues just like there are bowling leagues". Thanks go out to the North Shore Billiards Association founders for naming the prize trophy after such a great man.